Death Valley National Park (Episode 8)

Send us Fan MailDeath Valley is the hottest place on Earth, the lowest point in the United States, and one of the most misunderstood parks in the national park system. Drive through at noon in summer and it might seem like nothing but gray rocks. Wait for sunset — and everything turns purple, green, orange, and red.This episode was recorded in August 2023, eleven days after Hurricane Hilary caused unprecedented flooding throughout Death Valley National Park. Ranger Abby Wines joins The Parks Podcast while the park is still recovering — and shares the full story of Death Valley, from the pupfish with a global population of 35 to the greatest con in the history of the American West, and everything you need to plan a safe, remarkable visit.In this episode: — The Hurricane Hilary flooding and what it did to the park — The Devil's Hole pupfish — the world's rarest fish, with a population of 35 — How Death Valley got its name — and why the Timbisha Shoshone don't like it — Death Valley Scotty — the con man whose scam became a castle — The women of Death Valley history most people have never heard of — When to visit, where to stay, and how to camp — Safety — heat, navigation, and the most dangerous thing you'll do in the park — Top things to see: Badwater, Artist's Palette, Zabriskie Point, the Star Wars tour — Stargazing at one of the darkest sky parks in the countryImportant: Always check nps.gov/deva for current park conditions before visiting.Links mentioned: Current park status: nps.gov/devaCamping reservations: recreation.gov Oasis at Death Valley: oasisatdeathvalley.com  Rhyolite Ghost Town: near Beatty, NevadaSupport the show